Abstract Novel 2-(substituted benzoylamino)-3, 5-dichloropyridines and isosteric benzamides were synthesized and tested in vitro against the MP strain of herpes simplex virus type 1 [HSV-1 (MP)]. The introduction of methoxy groups at the 2-and 6-positions of the benzoyl moiety yielded compounds which significantly inhibit HSV-1 (MP) growth. Substitution with fluorine at the 4-position of the benzoyl group resulted in inactive ...